Bourbonnais Exploration Station to Close August 20–30 for Annual Maintenance
BOURBONNAIS, ILLINOIS — Families planning late-summer outings in Kankakee County will need to mark their calendars, as Exploration Station in Bourbonnais is set to close for its annual maintenance shutdown from August 20 through August 30, 2025. The closure is part of a long-standing tradition that allows staff to refresh exhibits, complete deep cleaning, and prepare new programming ahead of the fall season.
A Museum with Community Roots
Exploration Station, part of the Bourbonnais Township Park District, has been a fixture in the community for decades. Established in the early 1990s, it quickly became known as a hub for hands-on learning and family engagement, designed specifically for children to explore science, history, and creativity through interactive play.
Housed at Perry Farm Park, the museum has welcomed tens of thousands of children and families from across Kankakee County and surrounding regions. It has grown into one of the area’s most trusted educational resources outside of the classroom, blending fun with enrichment opportunities that support local schools and early childhood development.
A Role in Local Education
Teachers and parents frequently cite Exploration Station as a vital partner in education. Over the years, school groups have taken advantage of its programs to supplement classroom lessons, particularly in STEM subjects, local history, and creative arts.
“Exploration Station isn’t just a play space — it’s an extension of the classroom,” said Jennifer Morales, a Kankakee teacher who regularly brings her students for field trips. “Kids leave here with curiosity sparked and questions they can’t wait to explore back at school.”
The museum’s exhibits have ranged from imaginative play areas — such as a child-sized grocery store and mock hospital — to science-focused displays that encourage children to experiment, problem-solve, and learn by doing. Parents often describe it as an invaluable place where learning and family bonding happen side by side.
Annual Shutdown for Updates
According to park district officials, the August 20–30 closure is necessary to give staff time to prepare the facility for its busiest season. “The annual shutdown is about ensuring we’re ready for the school year and fall programming,” said one staff member. “We use the time to clean every corner, repair wear-and-tear, and refresh exhibits so families always have something new to look forward to.”
The facility is set to reopen Tuesday, September 2, at 10 a.m., with updated features and new activities. While officials have not revealed all details, families can expect fresh learning opportunities and a polished environment when the museum welcomes visitors again.
Other Park District Options During Closure
Though Exploration Station will be closed, the Bourbonnais Township Park District encourages families to take advantage of its other offerings. Perry Farm Park remains open for outdoor activities, with miles of trails, open fields, and recreational programs running throughout the summer.
For families looking for structured options, the park district’s website and social media pages offer schedules for youth sports, fitness programs, and seasonal events. “We always encourage families to see the park district as a whole,” said Amy Davidson, a longtime museum volunteer. “Exploration Station is one piece of a much larger puzzle of opportunities for kids and families here.”
Community Connection and Looking Ahead
For many residents, the museum holds personal memories. Parents who once visited as children are now returning with their own families, underscoring the museum’s multi-generational impact.
“Exploration Station has been part of our family for years,” said Sarah Williams of Bourbonnais, whose three children regularly attend. “When we go, my kids are learning without even realizing it. It’s wonderful to see how it’s still thriving and evolving after all these years.”
Looking forward, the annual refresh ensures Exploration Station remains a dynamic, reliable resource for families in Kankakee County. The museum’s mission to blend fun, creativity, and education continues to shape how children experience learning outside of school walls.
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